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Directions:
Start by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess moisture. Crumble the tofu into small pieces, resembling ground meat.
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic
and sauté until softened and fragrant (about 3 to 4 minutes). Add the diced carrot, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the crumbled tofu to the other side. Cook the tofu for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to brown lightly and become crispy.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, soy sauce, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and let the sauce simmer over low heat for about 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water or vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency.
Serving and Storage Instructions:
Serve the tofu Bolognese over your favorite pasta such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for extra freshness.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors may even improve if you let them sit overnight!
For long-term storage, you can freeze the Bolognese sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw and reheat.
Variations:
Mushroom and Tofu Bolognese: For a deeper, earthier flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms to the mix. Mushrooms work beautifully in Bolognese and add another layer of texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or serve the Bolognese over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free option.
Spicy Tofu Bolognese: Add a chopped jalapeño pepper or more red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick.
Rich and Creamy: For a creamy version, add a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream after simmering the sauce, adding a velvety texture.
This vegan tofu Bolognese recipe is not only a great way to enjoy plant-based meals, but also allows you to customize the sauce to suit your preferences. Enjoy!
